Oakland’s political landscape is in upheaval following the recall of former Mayor Sheng Thao due to federal bribery charges and the exposure of a racially charged incident within the interim administration.
Key Insights
- Oakland faces government shakeup after federal bribery allegations against former Mayor Sheng Thao.
- Mayor Sheng Thao’s recall supported by about 60% of Oakland voters.
- Interim leadership made critical staffing changes amid racial controversy.
- Former chief of staff claims remarks taken out of context, still faces removal.
Sheng Thao’s Recall: Federal Bribery Charges
In a dramatic turn of events, former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao was recalled in November 2024 following federal bribery allegations. Accusations center on Thao and associates engaging in pay-to-play schemes benefiting local businessmen, including arranging government positions and funding negative campaigns against political opponents.
According to the indictment, Thao allegedly conspired with her partner and businessmen Andy and David Duong to manipulate the city’s administrative processes for personal gain. The charges include straw donor schemes designed to influence political decisions in favor of private interests.
Racial Controversy and Resignations
The political turmoil intensified when a handwritten note using derogatory racial language surfaced, attributed to the chief of staff of interim Mayor Kevin Jenkins. Public backlash demanded swift action, and Jenkins announced that the chief of staff, Leigh Hanson, was no longer employed by the city.
Interim Mayor Jenkins quickly appointed Deputy Mayor Burt Jones as interim chief of staff to stabilize the administration and address resident concerns. This appointment came as Jenkins attempted to navigate the heightened calls for accountability and reform within the city’s leadership.
Looking Ahead: Mayoral Race and Restoring Order
The upcoming special election to replace Thao is heating up, with former chief of staff Renia Webb and former Rep. Barbara Lee among the contenders. Webb, previously known for her whistleblower role, insists on the need for ethical governance.
With multiple candidates vying for leadership, Oakland residents face crucial decisions in the coming election. Restoration of public trust and order remains paramount as these political dynamics unfold and the city works to overcome recent challenges.
Dear Oakland Voters, Do not start to rejoice over Leigh Hanson being fired just yet. We need to demand that she does NOT receive any pension benefits and that she gets denied unemployment. Leigh Hanson is NOT sorry. She has shown us who she is. Believe her. She didn't apologize.… pic.twitter.com/SxVo2bnte4
— IamKeishaKeisha (@IamKeishaKeisha) April 7, 2025
Sources:
- Oakland mayor cleans house, fires all remaining staff from former Thao administration
- Rivals of ex-Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao say they’re not surprised about corruption indictment – CBS San Francisco
- Former Oakland mayor, her longtime partner, two local businessmen charged with bribery offenses | Internal Revenue Service
- Oakland Mayor’s Chief of Staff No Longer Employed After Outcry Over Handwritten Note | The Epoch Times
